Carkins,

Here’s the only recommendations I’ll make for now.

Start a new thread with a list of ALL of your requirements and what you want at the present. Since you’ve already had to send one back because:

Quote:

I realized there was only one video plug and I need at least 2 for my dual monitor/hd tv setup.



… that means that almost ALL off the shelf computers aren’t going to work for you. That also means that you probably need a dedicated video card.

Also make a list of everything you THINK you might want to use it for in the next 5 years.

Ordering a “custom built” PC doesn’t mean you’ll pay through the nose. It just means you’ll pay for the components you select from a list.

Look at the MOBO in particular and also the video card since you have needs in that area. Forget about most of the "name brands" you see at Best Buy, WalMart, Amazon or any other "store".

In almost all cases, forget about local custom shops. They'll try to push whatever they're trying to get rid of today.

Order it online from a company that builds them to spec.

If video is your most important need, pick a gaming company.

If audio is your most important need, choose accordingly based on playback or recording.

That's the end of my recomendations for now.

Bob
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http://soundcloud.com/bobcflatpicke/music-in-the-mountains